Preparatory News

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEADMASTER’S DESK

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This week, the Junior Preparatory’s production of Alice in Wonderland Jr. took place. The production was a resounding success, demonstrating the excellence that can be achieved through diligence and teamwork.

The benefits of providing children with the opportunity to perform on stage are well worth the effort, with key benefits including: Boosting Confidence: Standing on stage and performing in front of an audience helps young children conquer shyness and build healthy self-esteem.

Improving Communication: Memorising lines, singing lyrics, and projecting their voices helps children practise clear speech, articulation, and active listening.

Teaching Teamwork: Working toward a shared goal teaches children how to cooperate, share the spotlight, and support their classmates.

Enhancing Motor Skills: Stage movement, choreography, and handling props help young learners develop physical coordination and body awareness.

Encouraging Creativity: Pretending to be a character lets children use their imagination to explore different emotions, stories, and perspectives.

Alice in Wonderland Jr. has raised the benchmark for future productions in the Preparatory School. This success was only made possible by a strong collaborative effort led by Mr Morobi, our drama specialist extraordinaire; Mrs Van Straaten and Mr Smit on the sound and music front; Mrs Versfeld’s creative props and costumes; Mrs Allen and Mrs Barbosa’s guidance with make-up; the support from all the Junior Preparatory teachers and parents who have contributed their time and skill; Mrs Human for her assistance with seating arrangements; and finally, Mrs Cresswell for steadying the ship during what can be a stressful time. Thank you!

In true St Dunstan’s style, we also hosted the annual PA golf day at Benoni Country Club. This event is a highlight on the calendar for the Parents’ Association and broader St Dunstan’s community. My thanks to the PA, and in particular Mrs Long, for the outstanding day which was organised under her leadership. In addition, thank you to all those who supported St Dunstan’s on the day through their involvement and sponsorship. A special mention to Darren Millington and Benoni Country Club for assisting with hosting our golf day.

This weekend, we host the final round of the 7s Rugby Festival series for Grades 3–7 boys, which will see schools from the greater Johannesburg area taking part on Saturday on the Preparatory School’s fields. I would encourage parents and children to join us in supporting our teams on what will be an exciting day of 7s rugby.

Finally, we would like to welcome Mr Sphe Nala, who started as Head of Sport in the Preparatory School this past Monday. We wish Mr Nala much success at St Dunstan’s and look forward to the positive contributions he will certainly make.

Next week Friday, school closes at 11:45 for the August break. Prior to that, parent-teacher meetings will take place on Tuesday, with reports being published on Thursday. I wish all staff, children, and families a well-deserved break over the holiday period.

God bless
Matthew Moolman

Moolman